What is ECC Acting?
In the world of professional theater, there are various terms and acronyms that actors encounter as they navigate their careers. One of these terms is ECC, which stands for Equity Chorus Call. The term is often used in the context of musical theater auditions and refers to a specific type of audition where union members of the Actors’ Equity Association (AEA) are invited to perform, typically for ensemble or chorus roles in productions.
Understanding ECC acting is essential for aspiring actors, particularly those looking to pursue careers in musical theater. This article will explain what ECC acting is, how it works, its significance in theater, and provide examples of how actors can benefit from participating in these auditions.
1. What is an ECC (Equity Chorus Call)?
An Equity Chorus Call (ECC) is an audition specifically for actors who are members of the Actors’ Equity Association (AEA), which is the union that represents professional stage actors and stage managers in the United States. The Chorus Call is an organized audition where actors come to try out for ensemble, chorus, or featured chorus roles in a theater production.
In contrast to traditional auditions, an ECC is generally open only to union members, though some non-union actors may be allowed to participate under specific conditions or after receiving an Equity Waiver. This ensures that the casting director and production team are meeting the union’s requirements for fair treatment, compensation, and working conditions.
ECC auditions are particularly common for musicals and large-scale stage productions that require a significant ensemble or chorus of performers. These roles typically involve singing, dancing, and performing in large group numbers rather than starring or featured roles.
2. Why Do ECC Auditions Exist?
The reason ECC auditions exist is primarily to maintain equity in the theater industry. Equity is the term used for fair treatment, proper wages, and conditions for union members. The union ensures that its members are treated fairly and given the same opportunities, regardless of their experience, background, or network connections.
An Equity Chorus Call is organized to ensure that only qualified union actors are considered for ensemble roles. It provides a centralized platform for AEA members to audition for a range of roles in one location, as opposed to having to attend multiple auditions or wait for specific calls from individual casting directors. This system also helps casting directors efficiently sort through a large pool of talented performers.
For example, a Broadway musical like Wicked may hold an ECC for its ensemble, which includes the chorus, dancers, and additional performers. This call gives AEA members the opportunity to be seen for parts in the chorus rather than having to wait for a more exclusive callback.
3. How Do ECC Auditions Work?
ECC auditions are generally held in specialized spaces, often casting offices or theater locations, where numerous actors are invited to participate. While the exact process can vary depending on the production, here’s a general breakdown of how these auditions work:
Pre-Registration and Time Slot Assignment
Actors wishing to participate in an ECC audition must first register through the official Equity website or the designated casting platform. After registration, actors may be assigned specific time slots to arrive at the audition, especially if the call is for a large production.
Actors will typically need to bring their headshot and resume, both of which must be current and accurate. If actors have previously performed in shows or productions, these credits can provide a competitive edge during the audition process.
The Audition Process
The audition itself can take place in a few stages:
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Dance Call: The dance portion is often the first part of the audition. Actors will be taught a short combination (a routine of steps and choreography) that they will perform for the casting team. This portion is particularly important for musicals or large productions that require an ensemble of dancers.
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Vocal Call: After the dance call, actors will be invited to sing. They are typically asked to prepare one or two songs in advance, usually in the style of the show or musical they are auditioning for. For instance, for a musical like Chicago, a singer may be asked to perform a jazz number, while a performer auditioning for Les Misérables may be asked to sing a dramatic ballad.
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Callbacks: After the initial audition, casting directors may invite certain actors back for callbacks to evaluate them more thoroughly for specific roles. For ECC auditions, this may include further dance, singing, or reading from the script.
No Guarantees
While ECC auditions give union members the chance to be seen by top industry professionals, there are no guarantees of being hired for a role. Typically, the casting team will see hundreds of actors in a single call, and only a select few will make it to the callback stage or be offered a contract. However, it is an essential part of an actor’s journey, as it provides exposure and the opportunity to be cast in major theater productions.
4. What Roles Are Auditioned for in ECC Calls?
An Equity Chorus Call is primarily focused on finding actors for ensemble or chorus roles. These roles do not typically involve leading parts or speaking lines, but they are essential to the overall production. In musicals, these roles often include:
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Chorus Performers: Singers and dancers who perform in large group numbers throughout the show.
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Swing Performers: A swing is an actor who is trained to play multiple roles and step in for regular cast members if they are unavailable or ill.
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Dance Captains: These performers are responsible for maintaining and teaching the choreography to other cast members. In some cases, they may also assist in auditions or rehearsal processes.
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Understudies: Understudies are actors who are ready to step into a lead role if the primary actor is unavailable.
These ensemble roles are critical to the success of a production. The chorus helps bring the show to life, creating energy and supporting the leads during key scenes. Many seasoned actors get their start in the chorus before moving on to lead roles.
Example 1: Wicked
One famous example of an ECC would be for a show like Wicked. In this production, the ensemble plays a crucial role in bringing the world of Oz to life through large group numbers like Defying Gravity and One Short Day. The casting directors would hold an Equity Chorus Call to find dancers, singers, and ensemble performers for the show. An actor might attend the ECC audition and, after singing and dancing, be called back to be considered for a role in the ensemble.
Example 2: The Lion King
Another example would be Disney’s The Lion King, a musical known for its elaborate choreography and large-scale ensemble numbers. An actor auditioning at an ECC for this production might be asked to perform a short dance combination and sing a song from the show. The casting directors would then evaluate how well the actor fits the style and tone of the production before considering them for a role in the ensemble.
5. The Benefits of ECC Auditions
While ECC auditions may seem daunting, they provide many valuable benefits for actors:
1. Exposure to Casting Directors and Industry Professionals
ECC auditions give actors a direct route to meet and perform in front of casting directors, choreographers, and producers. While attending these auditions doesn’t guarantee a role, it does give actors the chance to make a strong impression. For example, if an actor delivers an excellent audition, they may be called back for future projects, even if they weren’t cast in the current production.
2. Increased Opportunities
Participating in ECC auditions expands an actor’s pool of opportunities. Actors who are seen at these calls may be considered for future productions, tours, or other projects. It’s common for an actor to land a role in one musical or production and then be invited to audition for additional roles in the same or related productions.
3. Building Connections in the Theater Community
Attending Equity Chorus Calls provides actors with the chance to network with other professionals in the industry. Actors can meet peers, directors, and choreographers, which can help them secure future auditions and collaborations. These connections are invaluable for career growth and can lead to new and exciting opportunities.
6. Conclusion
ECC acting refers to the process of auditioning for chorus or ensemble roles through an Equity Chorus Call, which is a unionized audition designed specifically for members of the Actors’ Equity Association (AEA). These auditions offer union actors the opportunity to be considered for roles in large-scale musical productions, ensemble performances, and other theater projects.
Participating in ECC auditions provides actors with the chance to showcase their talent, meet casting directors, and potentially secure a role in major productions. While there are no guarantees, ECC auditions remain an essential part of the process for any serious actor pursuing a career in theater.
By attending ECC auditions, actors can hone their skills, make vital connections in the industry, and gain valuable experience in some of the most prestigious productions in the theater world. For many actors, this is the first step toward a successful and fulfilling career in musical theater.
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